'The Dark Knight Rises' new viral: Gotham passes the Harvey Dent Act

The Dark Knight Rises has debuted a new viral promotion, centred around the fictional Harvey Dent Act.

A mock-up press release has been issued announcing Gotham Mayor Anthony Garcia's signing of the new legislation, which aims to "bolster the city's campaign against organized crime".

Released by CBM, the bill is designed to close loopholes in the law which have allowed organized crime to flourish, and establishes Batman as a dangerous vigilante.

Named in honor of Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart), who died at the climax of The Dark Knight, the bill also establishes an official city holiday in honor of his "sacrifice".

"Harvey Dent was a hero in the true sense of the word," says Mayor Garcia in the release. "His courage in taking on the criminal empire that ruled our streets saved our city. It would be inappropriate for us not to honor his sacrifice."

"To those who claim this legislation creates a police state," he continues, "my answer is very simple. Before the Dent Act, our city was so desperate that we placed our trust behind a masked vigilante who ultimately murdered the man who was truly Gotham's shining hope. Luckily for us, the hope has endured. This bill is Harvey Dent's legacy and I intend to protect it."